Pump plunger with wrench features

ABSTRACT

A reciprocating element includes a cylindrical body having a front end opposite a tail end, and a central axis. The tail end of the cylindrical body is configured to be operatively connected to a pump power end that reciprocates the reciprocating element along a path within a bore of a pump fluid end during operation of a pump. The front end of the cylindrical body includes one or more tool engagement features positioned about an outer circumference of the front end of the cylindrical body of the reciprocating element and adapted to engage a corresponding one or more reciprocating element engagement features of a reciprocating element end of a tool. The reciprocating element can be rotated, pulled, and/or pushed via the tool relative to the central axis of the cylindrical body.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Not applicable.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable.

REFERENCE TO A MICROFICHE APPENDIX

Not applicable.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to a method and apparatus forsupplying pressurized fluids. More particularly, the present disclosurerelates to methods and reciprocating devices for pumping fluids into awellbore.

BACKGROUND

High-pressure pumps having reciprocating elements such as plungers orpistons are commonly employed in oil and gas production fields foroperations such as drilling and well servicing. For instance, one ormore reciprocating pumps may be employed to pump fluids into a wellborein conjunction with activities including fracturing, acidizing,remediation, cementing, and other stimulation or servicing activities.Due to the harsh conditions associated with such activities, manyconsiderations are generally taken into account when designing a pumpfor use in oil and gas operations. One design consideration may concernease of access to pump fluid end components, as reciprocating pumps usedin wellbore operations, for example, often encounter high cyclicalpressures and various other conditions that can render pump componentssusceptible to wear and result in a need for servicing and maintenanceof the pump.

Accordingly, it is desirable to provide a pump fluid end and componentsthereof, such as a reciprocating element, that facilitate access to thepump fluid end and components therein, such as a reciprocating element,components of a suction valve assembly, components of a discharge valveassembly, or a combination thereof.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE DRAWINGS

For a more complete understanding of this disclosure, reference is nowmade to the following brief description, taken in connection with theaccompanying drawings and detailed description, wherein like referencenumerals represent like parts.

FIG. 1 is an elevational view of a reciprocating pump, according toembodiments of this disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a cut-away illustration of an exemplary reciprocating pumpcomprising a cross-bore pump fluid end, according to embodiments of thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 3 is a cut-away illustration of an exemplary reciprocating pumpcomprising a concentric bore pump fluid end, according to embodiments ofthe present disclosure.

FIG. 4 is cut-away illustration of a pump power end of a pump, accordingto embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 is a schematic representation of an embodiment of a reciprocatingelement, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a schematic cross section view of a pump fluid end comprisingthe reciprocating element of FIG. 5 engaged with a tool.

FIG. 7 is a schematic cross section view of a pump fluid end comprisinga reciprocating element engaged with a tool, according to otherembodiments of this disclosure.

FIG. 8A is a schematic representation of an embodiment of an actuatingend of a tool, according to embodiments of this disclosure.

FIG. 8B is a schematic representation of an embodiment of an actuatingend of a tool, according to embodiments of this disclosure.

FIG. 8C is a schematic representation of an embodiment of an actuatingend of a tool, according to embodiments of this disclosure.

FIG. 9 is a schematic representation of an embodiment of a wellboreservicing system, according to embodiments of this disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

It should be understood at the outset that although an illustrativeimplementation of one or more embodiments are provided below, thedisclosed systems and/or methods may be implemented using any number oftechniques, whether currently known or in existence. The disclosureshould in no way be limited to the illustrative implementations,drawings, and techniques illustrated below, including the exemplarydesigns and implementations illustrated and described herein, but may bemodified within the scope of the appended claims along with their fullscope of equivalents.

Disclosed herein are a reciprocating element and a reciprocatingapparatus for pumping pressurized fluid comprising the reciprocatingelement. In embodiments, the reciprocating apparatus comprises areciprocating element comprising a cylindrical body having a front endopposite a tail end, and a central axis. The tail end of the cylindricalbody is configured to be operatively connected to a pump power endoperable to reciprocate the reciprocating element along a path within abore of a pump fluid end during operation of a pump comprising the pumppower end, the pump fluid end, and the reciprocating element. Accordingto this disclosure, the front end of the cylindrical body of thereciprocating element comprises one or more tool engagement featurespositioned about an outer circumference of the front end of thecylindrical body of the reciprocating element. The one or more toolengagement features are adapted to engage a corresponding one or morereciprocating element engagement features of a reciprocating element endof a tool, such that the reciprocating element can be rotated, pulled,and/or pushed via the tool relative to the central axis of thecylindrical body. In embodiments, the reciprocating apparatus is ahigh-pressure pump configured to operate at a pressure greater than orequal to about 3,000 psi and/or in a well servicing operation andenvironment.

A reciprocating apparatus of this disclosure may comprise any suitablepump operable to pump fluid. Non-limiting examples of suitable pumpsinclude, but are not limited to, piston pumps, plunger pumps, and thelike. In embodiments, the pump is a rotary- or reciprocating-type pumpsuch as a positive displacement pump operable to displace pressurizedfluid. The pump comprises a pump power end, a pump fluid end, and anintegration section whereby a reciprocating element (e.g., a plunger)can be mechanically connected with the pump power end such that thereciprocating element can be reciprocated within a reciprocating elementbore of the pump fluid end. FIG. 1 is an elevational view (e.g., sideview) of a pump 10 (e.g., a reciprocating pump) according to anexemplary embodiment, the reciprocating pump comprising a pump power end12, a pump fluid end 22, and an integration section 11. As illustratedin FIG. 1, pump fluid end has a front S1 opposite a back S2 along afirst or x-axis, a top S3 opposite a bottom S4 along a second or y-axis,wherein the y-axis is in the same plane as and perpendicular to thex-axis, and a left side and a right side along a z-axis, wherein thex-axis is along a plane perpendicular to the plane of the x-axis and they-axis. Accordingly, toward the top of pump fluid end 22 (and pump 10)is along the y-axis toward top S3, toward the bottom of pump fluid end22 (and pump 10) is along the y-axis toward bottom S4, toward the frontof pump fluid end 22 (and pump 10) is along the x-axis toward front S1,and toward the back of pump fluid end 22 (and pump 10) is along thex-axis away from front S1.

The pump fluid end 22 is integrated with the pump power end 12 via theintegration section 11, such that pump power end 12 is operable toreciprocate the reciprocating element 18 within a reciprocating elementbore 24 (FIGS. 2-3) of the pump fluid end 22. The reciprocating elementbore 24 is at least partially defined by a cylinder wall 26. Asdescribed further hereinbelow with reference to FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, pumpfluid end 22 can be a cross-bore pump fluid end 22 or, alternatively, anin-line or “concentric” bore pump fluid end. As utilized herein,cross-bore pump fluid ends can comprise “T-bore” pump fluid ends,“X-bore” (e.g., cross shaped bore) pump fluid ends, or “Y-bore” pumpfluid ends. FIG. 2 is a schematic showing a cross-bore pump fluid end 22engaged with a reciprocating element 18 and FIG. 3 is a schematicshowing a concentric bore pump fluid end 22 engaged with a reciprocatingelement 18. As discussed further below, the pump 10 includes at leastone fluid inlet 38 for receiving fluid from a fluid source, e.g., asuction line, suction header, storage or mix tank, blender, dischargefrom a boost pump such as a centrifugal pump, etc. The pump 10 alsoincludes at least one discharge outlet 54 for discharging fluid to adischarge source, e.g., a flowmeter, pressure monitoring and controlsystem, distribution header, discharge line, wellhead, dischargemanifold pipe, and the like.

The pump 10 may comprise any suitable pump power end 12 for enabling thepump 10 to perform pumping operations (e.g., pumping a wellboreservicing fluid downhole). Similarly, the pump 10 may include anysuitable housing 14 for containing and/or supporting the pump power end12 and components thereof. The housing 14 may comprise variouscombinations of inlets, outlets, channels, and the like for circulatingand/or transferring fluid. Additionally, the housing 14 may includeconnections to other components and/or systems, such as, but not limitedto, pipes, tanks, drive mechanisms, etc. Furthermore, the housing 14 maybe configured with cover plates or entryways for permitting access tothe pump power end 12 and/or other pump components. As such, the pump 10may be inspected to determine whether parts need to be repaired orreplaced. The pump power end may also be hydraulically driven, whetherit is a non-intensifying or an intensifying system.

Those versed in the art will understand that the pump power end 12 mayinclude various components commonly employed in pumps. Pump power end 12can be any suitable pump known in the art and with the help of thisdisclosure to be operable to reciprocate reciprocating element 18 inreciprocating element bore 24. For example, without limitation, pumppower end 12 can be operable via and comprise a crank and slidermechanism, a powered hydraulic/pneumatic/steam cylinder mechanism orvarious electric, mechanical or electro-mechanical drives. FIG. 4provides a cutaway illustration of an exemplary pump 10 of thisdisclosure, showing an exemplary pump power end 12, integrated viaintegration section 11 with a pump fluid end 22, wherein the pump powerend 12 is operable to reciprocate the reciprocating element 18 within areciprocating element bore 24 of the pump fluid end 22. Briefly, forexample, the pump power end 12 may include a rotatable crankshaft 16attached to at least one reciprocating element 18 (e.g., a plunger orpiston) by way of a crank arm/connecting rod 20. Additionally, an engine(e.g., a diesel engine), motor, or other suitable power source may beoperatively connected to the crankshaft 16 (e.g., through a transmissionand drive shaft) and operable to actuate rotation thereof. In operation,rotation of the crankshaft 16 induces translational movement of thecrank arm/connecting rod 20, thereby causing the reciprocating element18 to extend and retract along a flow path, which may generally bedefined by a central axis 17 within a reciprocating element bore 24(sometimes referred to herein for brevity as a “reciprocating elementbore 24” or simply a “bore 24”, although not wishing to be limited to aparticular reciprocating element 18). Pump 10 of FIG. 1 is typicallymounted on a movable structure such as a semi-tractor trailer or skid,and the moveable structure may contain additional components, such as amotor or engine (e.g., a diesel engine), that provides power (e.g.,mechanical motion) to the pump power end 12 (e.g., a crankcasecomprising crankshaft 16 and related connecting rods 20).

Of course, numerous other components associated with the pump power end12 of the pump 10 may be similarly employed, and therefore, fall withinthe purview of the present disclosure. Furthermore, since theconstruction and operation of components associated with pumps of thesort depicted in FIG. 1 are well known and understood, discussion of thepump 10 will herein be limited to the extent necessary for enabling aproper understanding of the disclosed embodiments.

As noted hereinabove, the pump 10 comprises a pump fluid end 22 attachedto the pump power end 12. Various embodiments of the pump fluid end 22are described in detail below in connection with other drawings, forexample FIGS. 2 and 3. Generally, the pump fluid end 22 comprises atleast one fluid inlet 38 for receiving fluid, and at least one dischargeoutlet 54 through which fluid flows out of the discharge chamber 53. Thepump fluid end 22 also comprises at least one valve assembly forcontrolling the receipt and output of fluid. For example, the pump fluidend 22 can comprise a suction valve assembly 56 and a discharge valveassembly 72. The pump fluid end 22 may include any suitable component(s)and/or structure(s) for containing and/or supporting the reciprocatingelement 18 and providing a cylinder wall 26 at least partially defininga reciprocating element bore 24 along which the pump power end canreciprocate the reciprocating element during operation of the pump.

In embodiments, the pump fluid end 22 may comprise a cylinder wall 26 atleast partially defining a bore 24 through which the reciprocatingelement 18 may extend and retract. Additionally, the bore 24 may be influid communication with a discharge chamber 53 formed within the pumpfluid end 22. Such a discharge chamber 53, for example, may beconfigured as a pressurized discharge chamber 53 having a dischargeoutlet 54 through which fluid is discharged by the reciprocating element18. Thus, the reciprocating element 18 may be movably disposed withinthe reciprocating element bore 24, which may provide a fluid flow pathinto and/or out of the pump chamber. During operation of the pump 10,the reciprocating element 18 may be configured to reciprocate along apath (e.g., along central axis 17 within bore 24 and/or pump chamber 28,which corresponds to reciprocal movement parallel to the x-axis ofFIG. 1) to transfer a supply of fluid to the pump chamber 28 and/ordischarge fluid from the pump chamber 28.

In operation, the reciprocating element 18 extends and retracts along aflow path to alternate between providing forward strokes (also referredto as discharge strokes and correlating to movement in a positivedirection parallel to the x-axis of FIG. 1) and return strokes (alsoreferred to as suction strokes and correlating to movement in a negativedirection parallel to the x-axis of FIG. 1), respectively. During aforward stroke, the reciprocating element 18 extends away from the pumppower end 12 and toward the pump fluid end 22. Before the forward stokebegins, the reciprocating element 18 is in a fully retracted position(also referred to as bottom dead center (BDC) with reference to thecrankshaft 16), in which case the suction valve assembly 56 can be in aclosed configuration having allowed fluid to flow into the (e.g., highpressure) pump chamber 28. (As utilized here, “high pressure” indicatespossible subjection to high pressure during discharge.) When dischargevalve assembly 72 is in a closed configuration (e.g., under theinfluence of a closing mechanism, such as a spring), the high pressurein a discharge pipe or manifold containing discharge outlet 54 preventsfluid flow into discharge chamber 53 and causes pressure in the pumpchamber 28 to accumulate upon stroking of the reciprocating element 18.When the reciprocating element 18 begins the forward stroke, thepressure builds inside the pump chamber 28 and acts as an opening forcethat results in positioning of the discharge valve assembly 72 in anopen configuration, while a closing force (e.g., via a closingmechanism, such as a spring and/or pressure increase inside pump chamber28) urges the suction valve assembly 56 into a closed configuration.When utilized in connection with a valve assembly, ‘open’ and ‘closed’refer, respectively, to a configuration in which fluid can flow throughthe valve assembly (e.g., can pass between a valve body and a valve seatthereof) and a configuration in which fluid cannot flow through thevalve assembly (e.g., cannot pass between a valve body and a valve seatthereof). As the reciprocating element 18 extends forward, fluid withinthe pump chamber 28 is discharged through the discharge outlet 54.

During a return stroke, the reciprocating element 18 reciprocates orretracts away from the pump fluid end 22 and towards the pump power end12 of the pump 10. Before the return stroke begins, the reciprocatingelement 18 is in a fully extended position (also referred to as top deadcenter (TDC) with reference to the crankshaft 16), in which case thedischarge valve assembly 72 can be in a closed configuration havingallowed fluid to flow out of the pump chamber 28 and the suction valveassembly 56 is in a closed configuration. When the reciprocating element18 begins and retracts towards the pump power end 12, the dischargevalve assembly 72 assumes a closed configuration, while the suctionvalve assembly 56 opens. As the reciprocating element 18 moves away fromthe discharge valve 72 during a return stroke, fluid flows through thesuction valve assembly 56 and into the pump chamber 28.

With reference to the embodiment of FIG. 2, which is a schematic showinga cross-bore pump fluid end 22 engaged with a reciprocating element 18,cross-bore pump fluid end 22 comprises a cross-bore fluid end body 8, across-bore pump chamber 28, a suction valve assembly 56, and a dischargevalve assembly 72. In this cross-bore configuration, suction valveassembly 56 and discharge valve assembly 72 are located in a bore orchannel 25 (also referred to herein as a cross bore 25) of pump chamber28, wherein bore 25 has a central axis 27 that is parallel to the y-axisof FIG. 1 and is perpendicular to bore 24 in which reciprocating element18 reciprocates during operation. Suction valve assembly 56 anddischarge valve assembly 72 are operable to direct fluid flow within thepump 10. When reciprocating element 18 retracts, or moves along centralaxis 17 in a direction away from the pump chamber 28 and the pump fluidend 22 and toward the pump power end 12 (as indicated by arrow 116), asuction valve of the suction valve assembly 56 opens (e.g., either undernatural flow or other biasing means), and a discharge valve of dischargevalve assembly 72 will be closed, whereby fluid enters pump chamber 28via fluid inlet 38. When the reciprocating element 18 reversesdirection, due to the action of the pump power end 12, the reciprocatingelement 18 reverses direction along central axis 17, now moving in adirection toward the pump chamber 28 and pump fluid end 22 and away frompump power end 12 (as indicated by arrow 117), and the discharge valveof discharge valve assembly 72 is open and the suction valve of suctionvalve assembly 56 is closed (e.g., again either due to fluid flow and/orother biasing means of valve control), such that fluid is pumped out ofpump chamber 28 via discharge outlet 54.

With reference to the embodiment of FIG. 3, which is a schematic showinga concentric pump fluid end 22 engaged with a reciprocating element 18,concentric bore pump fluid end 22 comprises a concentric bore fluid endbody 8, a concentric pump chamber 28, a suction valve assembly 56, and adischarge valve assembly 72. In this concentric bore configuration,suction valve assembly 56 and discharge valve assembly 72 are positionedin-line (also referred to as coaxial) with reciprocating element bore24, i.e., central axis 17 of reciprocating element bore 24 is also thecentral axis of suction pump assembly 56 and discharge valve assembly72). Suction valve assembly 56 and discharge valve assembly 72 areoperable to direct fluid flow within the pump 10. In some concentricbore fluid end designs, fluid flows within a hollow reciprocatingelement (e.g., a hollow plunger) 18. In some such embodiments, thereciprocating element bore 24 of such a concentric bore fluid end designcan be defined by a high pressure cylinder 26 providing a high pressurechamber and a low pressure cylinder (not depicted in the embodiment ofFIG. 3) providing a low pressure chamber toward tail end 62 ofreciprocating element 18, whereby fluid from fluid inlet 38 entersreciprocating element 18. When reciprocating element 18 retracts, ormoves along central axis 17 in a direction away from the pump chamber 28and pump fluid end 22 and toward pump power end 12 (as indicated byarrow 116), a suction valve of the suction valve assembly 56 opens(e.g., either under natural flow and/or other biasing means), and adischarge valve of discharge valve assembly 72 will be closed, wherebyfluid enters pump chamber 28 via a fluid inlet 38. For a concentric borepump fluid end 22 design, the fluid inlet can be configured to introducefluid into pump chamber 28 via a reciprocating element 18 that is hollowand/or via a low pressure chamber as described above. When thereciprocating element 18 reverses direction, due to the action of thepump power end 12, the reciprocating element 18 reverses direction alongcentral axis 17, now moving in a direction toward the pump chamber 28and pump fluid end 22 and away from pump power end 12 (as indicated byarrow 117), and the discharge valve of discharge valve assembly 72 isopen and the suction valve of suction valve assembly 56 is closed (e.g.,again either due to fluid flow and/or other biasing means of valvecontrol), such that fluid is pumped out of pump chamber 28 via dischargechamber 53 and discharge outlet 54.

A pump 10 of this disclosure can comprise one or more access ports. Forexample, with reference to the cross-bore fluid end body 8 embodiment ofFIG. 2, a front access port 30A can be located on a front S1 of the pumpfluid end 22 opposite a back S2 of the pump fluid end 22, wherein theback S2 of the pump fluid end is proximal the pump power end 12, uponintegration therewith via integration section 11. A top access port 30Bcan be located on a top S3 of the pump fluid end 22 opposite a bottom S4of the pump fluid end 22, wherein the top S1 of the pump fluid end 22 isabove central axis 17 and the bottom S4 of the pump fluid end 22 isbelow central axis 17. With reference to the concentric fluid end body 8embodiment of FIG. 3, a front access port 30A can be located on a frontS1 of the pump fluid end 22 opposite a back S2 of the pump fluid end 22,wherein the back S2 of the pump fluid end is proximal the pump power end12, upon integration therewith via integration section 11. Locationsdescribed as front S1, back S2, top S3, and bottom S4 are furtherdescribed with reference to the x-y-z coordinate system shown in FIG. 1and further can be relative to a surface (e.g., a trailer bed, theground, a platform, etc.) upon which the pump 10 is located, a bottom S4of the pump fluid end being proximal the surface (e.g., trailer bed)upon which the pump 10 is located. Generally, due to size andpositioning of pump 10, the front S1 and top S3 of the pump fluid end 22are more easily accessible than a back S2 or bottom S4 thereof. In asimilar manner, a front of pump 10 is distal the pump power end 12 and aback of the pump 10 is distal the pump fluid end 22. The integrationsection 11 can be positioned in a space between the pump fluid end 22and the pump power end 12, and can be safeguarded (e.g., from personnel)via a cover 15.

In embodiments, a pump fluid end 22 and pump 10 of this disclosurecomprise at least one access port located on a side of the dischargevalve assembly 72 opposite the suction valve assembly 56. For example,in the cross-bore pump fluid end 22 embodiment of FIG. 2, top accessport 30B is located on a side (e.g., top side) of discharge valveassembly 72 opposite suction valve assembly 56, while in the concentricbore pump fluid end 22 embodiment of FIG. 3, front access port 30A islocated on a side (e.g., front side) of discharge valve assembly 72opposite suction valve assembly 56.

In embodiments, one or more seals 29 (e.g., “o-ring” seals, packingseals, or the like), also referred to herein as ‘primary’ reciprocatingelement packing 29 may be arranged around the reciprocating element 18to provide sealing between the outer walls of the reciprocating element18 and the inner walls 26 defining at least a portion of thereciprocating element bore 24. In some concentric bore fluid enddesigns, a second set of seals (also referred to herein as ‘secondary’reciprocating element packing; not shown in the Figures) may be fixedlyarranged around the reciprocating element 18 to provide sealing betweenthe outer walls of the reciprocating element 18 and the inner walls of alow-pressure cylinder that defines the low pressure chamber describedhereinabove (e.g., wherein the secondary packing is farther back alongthe x-axis and delineates a back end of the low pressure chamber thatextends from the primary packing 29 to the secondary packing). Skilledartisans will recognize that the seals may comprise any suitable type ofseals, and the selection of seals may depend on various factors e.g.,fluid, temperature, pressure, etc.

While the foregoing discussion focused on a pump fluid end 22 comprisinga single reciprocating element 18 disposed in a single reciprocatingelement bore 24, it is to be understood that the pump fluid end 22 mayinclude any suitable number of reciprocating elements. As discussedfurther below, for example, the pump 10 may comprise a plurality ofreciprocating elements 18 and associated reciprocating element bores 24arranged in parallel and spaced apart along the z-axis of FIG. 1 (oranother arrangement such as a V block or radial arrangement). In such amulti-bore pump, each reciprocating element bore may be associated witha respective reciprocating element and crank arm, and a single commoncrankshaft may drive each of the plurality of reciprocating elements andcrank arms. Alternatively, a multi-bore pump may include multiplecrankshafts, such that each crankshaft may drive a correspondingreciprocating element. Furthermore, the pump 10 may be implemented asany suitable type of multi-bore pump. In a non-limiting example, thepump 10 may comprise a Triplex pump having three reciprocating elements18 (e.g., plungers or pistons) and associated reciprocating elementbores 24, discharge valve assemblies 72 and suction valve assemblies 56,or a Quintuplex pump having five reciprocating elements 18 and fiveassociated reciprocating element bores 24, discharge valve assemblies 72and suction valve assemblies 56.

Reciprocating element bore 24 can have an inner diameter slightlygreater than the outer diameter of the reciprocating element 18, suchthat the reciprocating element 18 may sufficiently reciprocate withinreciprocating element bore 24. In embodiments, the fluid end body 8 ofpump fluid end 22 has a pressure rating ranging from about 100 psi toabout 3000 psi, or from about 2000 psi to about 10,000 psi, from about5000 psi to about 30,000 psi, or from about 3000 psi to about 50,000 psior greater. The fluid end body 8 of pump fluid end 22 may be cast,forged or formed from any suitable materials, e.g., steel, metal alloys,or the like. Those versed in the art will recognize that the type andcondition of material(s) suitable for the fluid end body 8 may beselected based on various factors. In a wellbore servicing operation,for example, the selection of a material may depend on flow rates,pressure rates, wellbore service fluid types (e.g., particulate typeand/or concentration present in particle laden fluids such as fracturingfluids or drilling fluids, or fluids comprising cryogenic/foams), etc.Moreover, the fluid end body 8 (e.g., cylinder wall 26 defining at leasta portion of reciprocating element bore 24 and/or pump chamber 28) mayinclude protective coatings for preventing and/or resisting abrasion,erosion, and/or corrosion.

In embodiments, the cylindrical shape (e.g., providing cylindricalwall(s) 26) of the fluid end body 8 may be pre-stressed in an initialcompression. Moreover, a high-pressure cylinder(s) providing thecylindrical shape (e.g., providing cylindrical wall(s) 26) may compriseone or more sleeves (e.g., heat-shrinkable sleeves). Additionally oralternatively, the high-pressure cylinder(s) may comprise one or morecomposite overwraps and/or concentric sleeves (“over-sleeves”), suchthat an outer wrap/sleeve pre-loads an inner wrap/sleeve. The overwrapsand/or over-sleeves may be non-metallic (e.g., fiber windings) and/orconstructed from relatively lightweight materials. Overwraps and/orover-sleeves may be added to increase fatigue strength and overallreinforcement of the components.

The cylinders and cylindrical-shaped components (e.g., providingcylindrical wall 26) associated with the pump fluid end body 8 of pumpfluid end 22 may be held in place within the pump 10 using anyappropriate technique. For example, components may be assembled andconnected, e.g., bolted, welded, etc. Additionally or alternatively,cylinders may be press-fit into openings machined or cast into the pumpfluid end 22 or other suitable portion of the pump 10. Such openings maybe configured to accept and rigidly hold cylinders (e.g., havingcylinder wall(s) 26 at least partially defining reciprocating elementbore 24) in place so as to facilitate interaction of the reciprocatingelement 18 and other components associated with the pump 10.

In embodiments, the reciprocating element 18 comprises a plunger or apiston. While the reciprocating element 18 may be described herein withrespect to embodiments comprising a plunger, it is to be understood thatthe reciprocating element 18 may comprise any suitable component fordisplacing fluid. In a non-limiting example, the reciprocating element18 may be a piston. As those versed in the art will readily appreciate,a piston-type pump generally employs sealing elements (e.g., rings,packing, etc.) attached to the piston and movable therewith. Incontrast, a plunger-type pump generally employs fixed or static seals(e.g., primary seal or packing 29) through which the plunger movesduring each stroke (e.g., suction stroke or discharge stroke).

As skilled artisans will understand, the reciprocating element 18 mayinclude any suitable size and/or shape for extending and retractingalong a flow path within the pump fluid end 22. For instance,reciprocating element 18 may comprise a generally cylindrical shape, andmay be sized such that the reciprocating element 18 can sufficientlyslide against or otherwise interact with the inner cylinder wall 26. Inembodiments, one or more additional components or mechanical linkages 4(FIG. 4; e.g., clamps, adapters, extensions, etc.) may be used to couplethe reciprocating element 18 to the pump power end 12 (e.g., to apushrod 30).

In some embodiments (e.g., cross-bore pump fluid end 22 embodiments suchas FIG. 2), the reciprocating element may be substantially solid and/orimpermeable (e.g., not hollow). In alternative embodiments (e.g.,concentric bore pump fluid end 22 embodiment such as FIG. 3), thereciprocating element 18 comprises a peripheral wall defining a hollowbody. Additionally (e.g., concentric bore pump fluid end 22 embodimentssuch as FIG. 3), a portion of the peripheral wall of reciprocatingelement 18 may be generally permeable or may include an input throughwhich fluid may enter the hollow body and an output through which fluidmay exit the hollow body. Furthermore, while the reciprocating element18 may, in embodiments, define a substantially hollow interior andinclude a ported body, a base of the reciprocating element 18 proximalthe pump power end, when assembled, may be substantially solid and/orimpermeable (e.g., a plunger having both a hollow portion and a solidportion).

The reciprocating element 18 comprises a front or free end 60. Inembodiments comprising concentric bore pump fluid end designs 22 such asshown in FIG. 3, the reciprocating element 18 can contain or at leastpartially contain the suction valve assembly 56. In one aspect, thesuction valve assembly 56 is at least partially disposed within thereciprocating element 18 at or proximate to the front end 60 thereof. Atan opposite or tail end 62 (also referred to as back or tail end 62) ofthe reciprocating element 18, the reciprocating element 18 may include abase coupled to the pump power end 12 of the pump 10 (e.g., via crankarm 20). In embodiments, the tail end 62 of the reciprocating element 18is coupled to the pump power end 12 outside of pump fluid end 22, e.g.,within integration section 11.

As noted above, pump fluid end 22 contains a suction valve assembly 56.Suction valve assembly 56 may alternately open or close to permit orprevent fluid flow. Skilled artisans will understand that the suctionvalve assembly 56 may be of any suitable type or configuration (e.g.,gravity- or spring-biased, flow activated, etc.). Those versed in theart will understand that the suction valve assembly 56 may be disposedwithin the pump fluid end 22 at any suitable location therein. Forinstance, the suction valve assembly 56 may be disposed within the bore25 below central axis 17 of the pump fluid end 22, in cross-bore pumpfluid end 22 designs such as FIG. 2, such that a suction valve body ofthe suction valve assembly 56 moves away from a suction valve seatwithin the a suction valve seat housing of reciprocating element 18 whenthe suction valve assembly 56 is in an open configuration and toward thesuction valve seat when the suction valve assembly 56 is in a closedconfiguration. The suction valve assembly 56 may be disposed withinreciprocating element bore 24 and at least partially withinreciprocating element 18 in concentric bore pump fluid end 22 designssuch as FIG. 3, such that a suction valve body of the suction valveassembly 56 moves away from a suction valve seat within the a suctionvalve seat housing of reciprocating element 18 when the suction valveassembly 56 is in an open configuration and toward the suction valveseat when the suction valve assembly 56 is in a closed configuration.

Pump 10 comprises a discharge valve assembly 72 for controlling theoutput of fluid through discharge chamber 53 and discharge outlet 54.Analogous to the suction valve assembly 56, the discharge valve assembly72 may alternately open or close to permit or prevent fluid flow. Thoseversed in the art will understand that the discharge valve assembly 72may be disposed within the pump chamber at any suitable locationtherein. For instance, the discharge valve assembly 72 may be disposedwithin the bore 25 proximal the top S3 of the pump fluid end 22, incross-bore pump fluid end 22 designs such as FIG. 2, such that adischarge valve body of the discharge valve assembly 72 moves toward thedischarge chamber 53 when the discharge valve assembly 72 is in an openconfiguration and away from the discharge chamber 53 when the dischargevalve assembly 72 is in a closed configuration. The discharge valveassembly 72 may be disposed proximal the front S1 of bore 24 of the pumpfluid end 22 (e.g., at least partially within discharge chamber 53and/or pump chamber 28) in concentric bore pump fluid end 22 designssuch as FIG. 3, such that a discharge valve body of the discharge valveassembly 72 moves toward the discharge chamber 53 when the dischargevalve assembly 72 is in an open configuration and away from thedischarge chamber 53 when the discharge valve assembly 72 is in a closedconfiguration. In addition, the discharge valve assembly 72 may beco-axially aligned with the suction valve assembly 56 (e.g., alongcentral axis 17 in concentric bore pump fluid end 22 configurations suchas FIG. 3 or along central axis 27 of bore 25 perpendicular to centralaxis 17 in cross-bore pump fluid end 22 configurations such as FIG. 2),and, in concentric bore pump fluid end 22 configurations such as FIG. 3,the suction valve assembly 56 and the discharge valve assembly 72 may becoaxially aligned with the reciprocating element 18 (e.g., along centralaxis 17).

Further, the suction valve assembly 56 and the discharge valve assembly72 can comprise any suitable mechanism for opening and closing valves.For example, the suction valve assembly 56 and the discharge valveassembly 72 can comprise a suction valve spring and a discharge valvespring, respectively. Additionally, any suitable structure (e.g., valveassembly comprising sealing rings, stems, poppets, etc.) and/orcomponents may be employed suitable means for retaining the componentsof the suction valve assembly 56 and the components of the dischargevalve assembly 72 within the pump fluid end 22 may be employed.

The fluid inlet 38 may be arranged within any suitable portion of thepump fluid end 22 and configured to supply fluid to the pump in anydirection and/or angle. Moreover, the pump fluid end 22 may compriseand/or be coupled to any suitable conduit (e.g., pipe, tubing, or thelike) through which a fluid source may supply fluid to the fluid inlet38. The pump 10 may comprise and/or be coupled to any suitable fluidsource for supplying fluid to the pump via the fluid inlet 38. Inembodiments, the pump 10 may also comprise and/or be coupled to apressure source such as a boost pump (e.g., a suction boost pump)fluidly connected to the pump 10 (e.g., via inlet 38) and operable toincrease or “boost” the pressure of fluid introduced to pump 10 viafluid inlet 38. A boost pump may comprise any suitable type including,but not limited to, a centrifugal pump, a gear pump, a screw pump, aroller pump, a scroll pump, a piston/plunger pump, or any combinationthereof. For instance, the pump 10 may comprise and/or be coupled to aboost pump known to operate efficiently in high-volume operations and/ormay allow the pumping rate therefrom to be adjusted. Skilled artisanswill readily appreciate that the amount of added pressure may dependand/or vary based on factors such as operating conditions, applicationrequirements, etc. In one aspect, the boost pump may have an outletpressure greater than or equal to about 70 psi, about 80 psi, or about110 psi, providing fluid to the suction side of pump 10 at about saidpressures. Additionally or alternatively, the boost pump may have a flowrate of greater than or equal to about 80 BPM, about 70 BPM, and/orabout 50 BPM.

As noted hereinabove, the pump 10 may be implemented as a multi-cylinderpump comprising multiple cylindrical reciprocating element bores 24 andcorresponding components. In embodiments, the pump 10 is a Triplex pumpin which the pump fluid end 22 comprises three reciprocating assemblies,each reciprocating assembly comprising a suction valve assembly 56, adischarge valve assembly 72, a pump chamber 28, a fluid inlet 38, adischarge outlet 54, and a reciprocating element bore 24 within which acorresponding reciprocating element 18 reciprocates during operation ofthe pump 10 via connection therewith to a (e.g., common) pump power end12. In embodiments, the pump 10 is a Quintuplex pump in which the pumpfluid end 22 comprises five reciprocating assemblies. In a non-limitingexample, the pump 10 may be a Q-10™ Quintuplex Pump or an HT-400™Triplex Pump, produced by Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.

In embodiments, the pump fluid end 22 may comprise an external manifold(e.g., a suction header) for feeding fluid to the multiple reciprocatingassemblies via any suitable inlet(s). Additionally or alternatively, thepump fluid end 22 may comprise separate conduits such as hoses fluidlyconnected to separate inlets for inputting fluid to each reciprocatingassembly. Of course, numerous other variations may be similarlyemployed, and therefore, fall within the scope of the presentdisclosure.

Those skilled in the art will understand that the reciprocating elementsof each of the reciprocating assemblies may be operatively connected tothe pump power end 12 of the pump 10 according to any suitable manner.For instance, separate connectors (e.g., cranks arms/connecting rods 20,one or more additional components or mechanical linkages 4, pushrods 30,etc.) associated with the pump power end 12 may be coupled to eachreciprocating element body or tail end 62. The pump 10 may employ acommon crankshaft (e.g., crankshaft 16) or separate crankshafts to drivethe multiple reciprocating elements.

As previously discussed, the multiple reciprocating elements may receivea supply of fluid from any suitable fluid source, which may beconfigured to provide a constant fluid supply. Additionally oralternatively, the pressure of supplied fluid may be increased by addingpressure (e.g., boost pressure) as described previously. In embodiments,the fluid inlet(s) 38 receive a supply of pressurized fluid comprising apressure ranging from about 30 psi to about 300 psi.

Additionally or alternatively, the one or more discharge outlet(s) 54may be fluidly connected to a common collection point such as a sump ordistribution manifold, which may be configured to collect fluids flowingout of the fluid outlet(s) 54, or another cylinder bank and/or one ormore additional pumps.

During pumping, the multiple reciprocating elements 18 will performforward and returns strokes similarly, as described hereinabove. Inembodiments, the multiple reciprocating elements 18 can be angularlyoffset to ensure that no two reciprocating elements are located at thesame position along their respective stroke paths (i.e., the plungersare “out of phase”). For example, the reciprocating elements may beangularly distributed to have a certain offset (e.g., 120 degrees ofseparation in a Triplex pump) to minimize undesirable effects that mayresult from multiple reciprocating elements of a single pumpsimultaneously producing pressure pulses. The position of areciprocating element is generally based on the number of degrees a pumpcrankshaft (e.g., crankshaft 16) has rotated from a bottom dead center(BDC) position. The BDC position corresponds to the position of a fullyretracted reciprocating element at zero velocity, e.g., just prior to areciprocating element moving (i.e., in a direction indicated by arrow117 in FIGS. 2 and 3) forward in its cylinder. A top dead centerposition corresponds to the position of a fully extended reciprocatingelement at zero velocity, e.g., just prior to a reciprocating elementmoving backward (i.e., in a direction indicated by arrow 116 in FIGS. 2and 3) in its cylinder.

As described above, each reciprocating element 18 is operable to draw influid during a suction (backward or return) stroke and discharge fluidduring a discharge (forward) stroke. Skilled artisans will understandthat the multiple reciprocating elements 18 may be angularly offset orphase-shifted to improve fluid intake for each reciprocating element 18.For instance, a phase degree offset (at 360 degrees divided by thenumber of reciprocating elements) may be employed to ensure the multiplereciprocating elements 18 receive fluid and/or a certain quantity offluid at all times of operation. In one implementation, the threereciprocating elements 18 of a Triplex pump may be phase-shifted by a120-degree offset. Accordingly, when one reciprocating element 18 is atits maximum forward stroke position, a second reciprocating element 18will be 60 degrees through its discharge stroke from BDC, and a thirdreciprocating element will be 120 degrees through its suction strokefrom top dead center (TDC).

Description of a reciprocating element 18 of this disclosure will now bemade with reference to FIG. 5, which is a schematic representation of anembodiment of a reciprocating element 18, according to embodiments ofthe present disclosure. Reciprocating element 18 comprises a cylindricalbody 19 (e.g., in embodiments, a solid and/or hollow cylindrical body)having a front end 60 opposite a tail end 62, and a central axis 17A.During operation of a pump 10 of this disclosure comprisingreciprocating element 18, central axis 17A of reciprocating element 18is coincident (also referred to as coaxial) with central axis 17 of pumpfluid end 22. As described hereinabove with reference to FIGS. 1-4, tailend 62 of the cylindrical body 19 is configured to be operativelyconnected to a pump power end 12 operable to reciprocate thereciprocating element 18 along a path within bore 24 of a pump fluid end22 during operation of a pump 10 comprising the pump power end 12, thepump fluid end 12, and the reciprocating element 18.

Front end 60 of the cylindrical body 19 of reciprocating element 18comprises one or more tool engagement features 64 positioned about anouter circumference of the front end 60 of the cylindrical body 19 ofthe reciprocating element 18. With reference to FIG. 6, which is aschematic cross section view of a pump fluid end 22 comprising thereciprocating element 18 of FIG. 5 engaged with a reciprocation elementmanipulation tool 92 (also referred to herein as a “tool” 92), the oneor more tool engagement features 62 are adapted or configured to engagea corresponding one or more reciprocating element engagement features 95of a reciprocating element end 94 of tool 92, such that thereciprocating element 18 can be rotated, pulled, and/or pushed via tool92 relative to the central axis 17A of the cylindrical body 19.

Reciprocating element packing 29 (FIG. 2 and FIG. 3) has a tight fitaround reciprocating element 18. Accordingly, enabling rotation (e.g.,relative to central axis 17/17A) of reciprocating element 18 duringinsertion thereof into or removal thereof from reciprocating elementbore 24 (e.g., while simultaneously moving the reciprocating elementaxially along central axis 17/17A) allows for a reduction in frictionbetween reciprocating element 18 and reciprocating element packing 29,such that an effort needed to move reciprocating element 18 throughreciprocating element packing 29 is reduced. The ability to rotatereciprocating element 18 provided by the tool engagement features 64 ofreciprocating element 18 and tool 92 also allows for coupling ofreciprocating element 18 with pump power end 12 and decoupling ofreciprocating element 18 from pump power end 12 (e.g.,coupling/decoupling of reciprocating element 18 with/from one or moreadditional components or mechanical linkages 4 (FIG. 4, e.g., clamps,adapters, extensions, pushrods, or a combination thereof) used to couplethe reciprocating element 18 to the pump power end 12), in embodiments.

As depicted in the embodiment of FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, the one or more toolengagement features 64 of reciprocating element 18 can comprise one ormore slots. Although depicted as having an L-shape in the embodiment ofFIG. 5 and FIG. 6, the one or more tool engagement features 64 ofreciprocating element 18 (e.g., the slots) can have any suitable shapethat provides for mating of the front end 60 of the reciprocatingelement 18 with the reciprocating element end 94 of tool 92, such thatthe reciprocating element 18 can be rotated, pulled, and/or pushed viatool 92 relative to the central axis 17A of the cylindrical body 19.Such shapes will be apparent to those of skill in the art with the helpof this disclosure. In embodiments, the one or more tool engagementfeatures 64 of reciprocating element 18 comprise a shape comprising aJ-shape, a T-shape, an L-shape, or a combination thereof. For example,with reference to FIG. 7, which is a schematic cross section view of apump fluid end 22 comprising a reciprocating element 18 engaged with atool 92, according to other embodiments of this disclosure, toolengagement features 64 of reciprocating element 18 and reciprocatingelement engagement features 95 of tool 92 can comprise a T-shape,wherein a length L1 of the top of the T-shape of reciprocating elementengagement features 95 of tool 92 is less than a length of the bottom ofthe T-shape of tool engagement features 64 of reciprocating element 18,such that the reciprocating engagement features 95 of tool 92 can beinserted into the tool engagement features 64 of reciprocating element18. Many other variations are possible, such as combinations of aT-shape of reciprocating element engagement features 95 of tool 92 and aJ-shape of tool engagement features 64 of reciprocating element 18. Inembodiments, the reciprocating element engagement features 95 of thetool 92 are rotatably lockable with the tool engagement features 64 ofthe reciprocating element 18, whereby the reciprocating element 18 canbe rotated and pulled and/or rotated and pushed via the tool 92 relativeto the central axis 17A of the cylindrical body 19.

In embodiments, the front end 60 of the cylindrical body 19 (e.g., ahollow cylindrical body) of reciprocating element 18 comprises a wall 95having a wall thickness 13 in a direction perpendicular to central axis17A of cylindrical body 19, and the one or more tool engagement features64 of reciprocating element 18 extend a depth D1 into the wall 95 thatis less than or substantially equal to the wall thickness 95. That is,tool engagement features 64 of reciprocating element 18 may or may notextend all the way through wall 95 (i.e., in a direction perpendicularto central axis 17A of cylindrical wall 19) of front end 60 ofreciprocating element 18. In an embodiment, wall 95 is a solid wall(e.g., a solid cylindrical body) and tool engagement features 64 ofreciprocating element 18 do not extend all the way through wall 95(i.e., in a direction perpendicular to central axis 17A of cylindricalwall 19) of front end 60 of reciprocating element 18. In an aspect, toolengagement features 64 are surface features formed (e.g., machined orcast) into the outer surface of the cylindrical body 19.

As described previously herein, in embodiments, reciprocating element 18comprises a plunger or a piston. As described further hereinbelow, inembodiments of a pump 10 of this disclosure comprising a concentric borepump fluid end 22, front end 60 of cylindrical body 19 (e.g., a hollowcylindrical body) of reciprocating element 18 can be configured forcoupling with a suction valve assembly 56. The suction valve assembly 56can comprise, for example, a valve body that can move toward and awayfrom a valve seat of the valve assembly, whereby the suction valveassembly 56 closes and opens, respectively, during reciprocation ofreciprocating element 18 within reciprocating element bore 24 (FIGS.2-3). In such embodiments, reciprocating element 18 can further comprisea valve seat housing located at front end 60 of cylindrical body 19(e.g., a hollow cylindrical body).

Also disclosed herein is a reciprocating element manipulation tool 92,as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7. As noted hereinabove, reciprocating elementmanipulation tool 92 comprises actuating end 93 and reciprocatingelement end 94. The reciprocating element end 94 comprises one or morereciprocating element engagement features 95 adapted or configured toengage a corresponding one or more tool engagement features 64 of areciprocating element 18, such that the reciprocating element 18 can berotated, pulled, and/or pushed via the tool 92 by engaging the toolengagement features 64 of the reciprocating element 18 with thereciprocating element engagement features 95 of the tool 92 such that acentral axis 17B of the tool 92 and a central axis 17A of thereciprocating element 18 are coaxial, and rotating, pushing, and/orpulling the reciprocating element 18 relative to its central axis 17A bycorrespondingly rotating, pushing, and/or pulling the actuating end 93of the tool 92 relative to its central axis 17B.

Reciprocating element manipulation tool 92 also comprises a cylindricalbody 99, which may be solid and/or hollow. In embodiments wherein theone or more tool engagement features 64 of reciprocating element 18comprise a plurality of slots positioned about an outer circumference offront end 60 of cylindrical body 19 of reciprocating element 18, the oneor more reciprocating element engagement features 95 of tool 92 cancomprise a plurality of lugs configured to correspondingly fit into theone or more slots and positioned about an outer circumference of thereciprocating element end 94 of the cylindrical body 99 of the tool 92.In embodiments, the one or more reciprocating element engagementfeatures 95 of tool 92 can have a size and shape that are complimentaryto and engage or mate with the size and shape of the corresponding oneor more tool engagement features 64 of a reciprocating element 18,including without limitation a J-shape, a T-shape, an L-shape, or acombination thereof. In embodiments, an outside diameter OD2 of tool 92is substantially equal to an outside diameter OD1 of reciprocatingelement 18.

The actuating end 93 of tool 92 can be of any design such thatreciprocating element 18 can be rotated, pulled, and/or pushed via thetool 92 by engaging the tool engagement features 64 of the reciprocatingelement 18 with the reciprocating element engagement features 95 of thetool 92 such that a central axis 17B of the tool 92 and a central axis17A of the reciprocating element 18 are coaxial, and rotating, pushing,and/or pulling the reciprocating element 18 relative to its central axis17A by correspondingly rotating, pushing, and/or pulling the actuatingend 93 of the tool 92 relative to its central axis 17B. That is,actuating end 93 of tool 92 can have any configuration that allows forrotating, pushing, and/or pulling the actuating end 93. Suchconfigurations will be apparent to those of skill in the art and withthe help of this disclosure. Exemplary configurations of actuating ends93 suitable for use according to embodiments of this disclosure will nowbe described with reference to FIG. 8A, FIG. 8B, and FIG. 8C. Asdepicted in FIG. 8A, which is a schematic representation of anembodiment of an actuating end 93A of a tool 92, according toembodiments of this disclosure, actuating end 93A can comprise aninternal square drive 96 (e.g., a solid cylindrical body having a squarebore in an end therein). In such embodiments, tool 92 can be rotated,pulled, and/or pushed by rotating, pulling, and/or pushing internalsquare drive 96, for example, via a wrench such as a ratcheting wrench.As depicted in FIG. 8B, which is a schematic representation of anembodiment of an actuating end 93B of a tool 92, according toembodiments of this disclosure, actuating end 93B can comprise anexternal lug such as hex 97 (e.g., a solid cylindrical body having asolid lug protruding from an end thereof that may be of any desirableshape such as square or hexagonal). In such embodiments, tool 92 can berotated, pulled, and/or pushed by rotating, pulling, and/or pushingexternal hex 97, for example, via a wrench or a socket and ratchet. Asdepicted in FIG. 8C, which is a schematic representation of anembodiment of an actuating end 93C of a tool 92, according toembodiments of this disclosure, actuating end 93C can comprise a throughhole 98 (e.g., a solid cylindrical body having a bore of any effectiveshape (e.g., circular) in a side there of). In such embodiments, tool 92can be rotated, pulled, and/or pushed by rotating, pulling, and/orpushing internal square drive 96, for example, via a bar inserted intothrough hole 98.

Also disclosed herein is a pump fluid end 22 comprising a reciprocatingelement 18 of this disclosure, and a pump 10 comprising the pump fluidend 22. In embodiments, a pump fluid end 22 of this disclosure comprisesa suction valve assembly 56 and/or a discharge valve assembly 72.

In embodiments, discharge valve assembly 72 and/or suction valveassembly 56 comprises a valve assembly having a valve guide, asdescribed, for example, in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/411,910filed May 14, 2019 and is entitled “Valve Assembly for a Fluid End withLimited Access”, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated hereinin its entirety for purposes not contrary to this disclosure.

In embodiments, a discharge valve seat of discharge valve assembly 72and/or a suction valve seat of suction valve assembly 56 is a valve seatwith supplemental retention, as described, for example, in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 16/411,898 filed May 14, 2019 and is entitled “PumpValve Seat with Supplemental Retention”, the disclosure of which ishereby incorporated herein in its entirety for purposes not contrary tothis disclosure.

In embodiments, pump fluid end 22 is a pump fluid end 22 with an easyaccess suction valve, as described, for example, in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 16/411,891 filed May 14, 2019 and is entitled “PumpFluid End with Easy Access Suction Valve”, the disclosure of which ishereby incorporated herein in its entirety for purposes not contrary tothis disclosure.

In embodiments, the pump fluid end 22 comprising a reciprocating elementof this disclosure (e.g., having tool engagement features 64), is across-bore pump fluid end 22 (e.g., of the type shown in FIG. 2 anddescribed in detail herein) comprising a fluid end body 8 comprising across-bore pump chamber 28, a cylindrical reciprocating element bore 24,partially defined by cylinder walls 26, in which reciprocating element18 can reciprocate during operation of a pump comprising the pump fluidend 22, the reciprocating element 18, a pump power end 12 (FIG. 4), anda cylindrical cross-bore 25 comprising a suction valve assembly 56 and adischarge valve assembly 72. For example, in such embodiments, thedischarge valve assembly 72 can be positioned coaxially above thesuction valve assembly 56 within cross-bore 25.

In embodiments, the pump fluid end 22 comprising a reciprocating element18 of this disclosure (e.g., having tool engagement features 64), is aconcentric bore pump fluid end 22 (e.g., of the type shown in FIG. 3 anddescribed in detail herein) comprising a fluid end body 8 comprising aconcentric bore pump chamber 28, a cylindrical reciprocating elementbore 24, partially defined by cylinder walls 26, in which areciprocating element 18 can reciprocate during operation of a pumpcomprising the pump fluid end 22, the reciprocating element 18, a pumppower end 12 (FIG. 4), and a discharge valve assembly 72 located at oneend (e.g., proximate the front end) of reciprocating element bore 24 anda suction valve assembly 56 located at least partially within front end60 of reciprocating element 18. In such embodiments, such as depicted inFIG. 3, the suction valve assembly 56 and the discharge valve assembly72 can be positioned coaxially along central axis 17.

In some such concentric bore pump fluid end 22 embodiments, pump 10comprises a flexible manifold, as described, for example, in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 16/411,901 filed May 14, 2019 and is entitled“Flexible Manifold for Reciprocating Pump”, the disclosure of which ishereby incorporated herein in its entirety for purposes not contrary tothis disclosure.

Also disclosed herein is a method of servicing a pump 10 of thisdisclosure. According to this disclosure, a method of servicing a pump10 of this disclosure comprises accessing the reciprocating element bore24 of the pump fluid end 22 of pump 10. Accessing the reciprocatingelement bore 24 can comprise opening front access port 30A of the pumpfluid end 22 located on front S1 of pump fluid end 22, as shown in FIGS.1, 2 and 3. The method of servicing the pump 10, according to thisdisclosure, further comprises inserting tool 92 through open access port30A and engaging the tool engagement features 64 of the reciprocatingelement 18 with the reciprocating element engagement features 95 of thetool 92, and removing the reciprocating element 18 from the pump fluidend 22 by rotating and pulling the reciprocating element 18 via the tool92 relative to the central axis 17A of the cylindrical body ofreciprocating element 18. Upon servicing or replacing the reciprocatingelement 18, the method further comprises positioning the or anotherreciprocating element 18 within the pump fluid end 22 via open accessport 30A and rotating and pushing the reciprocating element 18 or theanother reciprocating element 18 via the tool 92 relative to the centralaxis 17A of the cylindrical body 19 of reciprocating element 18. Inembodiments, reciprocating element 18 is inserted into or removed frompump fluid end 22 without rolling pump power end 12 (i.e., withoutrotating crankshaft 16 therein).

In embodiments, pump fluid end 22 comprises a packing assembly, suchthat packing 29, a packing carrier, and a packing screw can be removedfrom back S2 of pump fluid end 22 when crankshaft 16 is at TDC, asdescribed, for example, in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/411,911filed May 14, 2019 and is entitled “Pump Fluid End with PositionalIndifference for Maintenance”, the disclosure of which is herebyincorporated herein in its entirety for purposes not contrary to thisdisclosure.

In embodiments, a method of servicing a pump 10 of this disclosurecomprises removing the reciprocating element 18 from the pump fluid end18 via open access port 30A by rotating and pulling the reciprocatingelement 18 via the tool 92 relative to the central axis 17A of thecylindrical body 19 of reciprocating element 18; optionally performing amaintenance on the pump fluid end 22 of the pump 10, the reciprocatingelement 18, or both; and positioning the or another reciprocatingelement 18 within the pump fluid end 22 via open access port 30A byrotating and pushing the reciprocating element 18 or the anotherreciprocating element 18 via the tool 92 relative to the central axis17A of the cylindrical body 19 of reciprocating element 18.

Performing a maintenance on the pump fluid end 22 of the pump 18 cancomprise performing any maintenance on pump fluid end 22 that requiresremoval of reciprocating element 18 therefrom. For example, inembodiments, performing maintenance comprises repacking a reciprocatingelement packing 29 within the reciprocating element bore 24. Inembodiments, performing a maintenance on the reciprocating element 18comprises replacing or repairing a suction valve assembly 56 (or acomponent thereof, e.g., a suction valve body) integrated with thereciprocating element 18 and/or the reciprocating element 18 (e.g., ahollow cylindrical reciprocating element 18 in a concentric bore pumpfluid end 22 of the type shown in FIG. 3).

In embodiments, as noted hereinabove with reference to the embodiment ofFIG. 4, pump 10 comprises one or more additional components ormechanical linkages 4 (e.g., clamps, adapters, extensions, etc.) used tocouple the reciprocating element 18 to the pump power end 12 (e.g., to acrank arm/connecting rod 20 and/or pushrod 30), for example whenremoving the reciprocating element 18 to perform maintenance on thereciprocating element 18 and/or the pump fluid end 22. In embodiments,reciprocating element 18 is coupled with a pushrod 30 of pump power end12 via a reciprocating element adapter, as described, for example, inU.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/411,894 filed May 14, 2019 and isentitled “Easy Change Pump Plunger”, the disclosure of which is herebyincorporated herein in its entirety for purposes not contrary to thisdisclosure.

In some such embodiments, the one or more additional components 4comprise a pushrod of power end 12 and/or a reciprocating elementadapter further coupled to a pushrod of power end 12. In suchembodiments, removing the reciprocating element 18 from the pump fluidend 22 by rotating and pulling the reciprocating element 18 via the tool92 relative to the central axis 17A of the cylindrical body 19 ofreciprocating element 18 can further comprise decoupling (e.g., viaunscrewing a threaded connection) the tail end 62 of the cylindricalbody 19 of the reciprocating element 18 from the reciprocating elementadapter further coupled to the pushrod of the power end 12 and/orotherwise decoupling (e.g., via unscrewing a threaded connection) thetail end 62 of the cylindrical body 19 of the reciprocating element 18from the pushrod of the power end 22, and positioning the or the anotherreciprocating element 18 within the pump fluid end 22 by rotating andpushing the reciprocating element 18 or the another reciprocatingelement 18 via the tool 92 can further comprise coupling (e.g., viascrewing a threaded connection) the tail end 62 of the cylindrical body19 of the reciprocating element 18 or the another reciprocating element18 with the reciprocating element adapter further coupled to the pushrodof the power end 12 and/or otherwise coupling (e.g., via screwing athreaded connection) the tail end 62 of the cylindrical body 19 of thereciprocating element 18 or the another reciprocating element 18directly with the pushrod of the power end 12.

In embodiments, the one or more additional components or mechanicallinkages 4 comprise a reciprocating element adapter coupled to a pushrodof pump power end 12 via a clamp that fixedly couples the reciprocatingelement adapter in contact with the pushrod of the power end 12. In suchembodiments, positioning the or the another reciprocating element 18within the pump fluid end 22 (e.g., via open access port 30A) byrotating and pushing the reciprocating element 18 or the anotherreciprocating element 18 via the tool 92 can comprise coupling (e.g.,via screwing a threaded connection) the tail end 62 of the cylindricalbody 19 of the reciprocating element 18 or the another reciprocatingelement 18 with the reciprocating element adapter further coupled to thepushrod of the power end via the reciprocating element clamp, such thatthe tail end 62 of the cylindrical body 19 of the reciprocating element18 is fixedly coupled to the reciprocating element adapter, whereby,upon positioning of the reciprocating element 18 or the anotherreciprocating element 18 within the pump fluid end 22, a central axis17A of the reciprocating element 18 is parallel to or coincident with acentral axis of the pushrod.

The front access port 30A is closed prior to resuming operation of thepump 10.

Also disclosed herein are a method of servicing a wellbore and awellbore servicing system 200 comprising a pump of this disclosure. Anembodiment of a wellbore servicing system 200 and a method of servicinga wellbore via the wellbore servicing system 200 will now be describedwith reference to FIG. 9, which is a schematic representation of anembodiment of a wellbore servicing system 200, according to embodimentsof this disclosure.

A method of servicing a wellbore 224 according to this disclosurecomprises fluidly coupling a pump 10 of this disclosure to a source of awellbore servicing fluid and to the wellbore, wherein the pump comprisesa reciprocating element 18 as described herein, and communicatingwellbore servicing fluid into the wellbore via the pump. The method ofservicing wellbore 224 according to this disclosure can further comprisediscontinuing the communicating of the wellbore servicing fluid into thewellbore via the pump 10, subjecting the pump 10 to maintenance toprovide a maintained pump, and communicating the or another wellboreservicing fluid into the wellbore via the maintained pump 10. Subjectingthe pump 10 to maintenance can comprise servicing the pump 10 asdescribed hereinabove. In embodiments, for example, subjecting pump 10to maintenance comprises accessing the reciprocating element bore 24 ofthe pump fluid end 22, removing the reciprocating element 18 from thepump fluid end 22 by rotating and pulling the reciprocating element 18via the tool 92, optionally performing a maintenance on the pump fluidend 22 of the pump 10, on the reciprocating element 18, or both, andpositioning the or another reciprocating element 18 within the pumpfluid end 22 by rotating and pushing the reciprocating element 18 or theanother reciprocating element 18 via the tool 92 relative to the centralaxis 17A of the reciprocating element 18. As noted above, performing amaintenance on the pump fluid end 22 of the pump 10 can comprise, forexample and without limitation, repacking a reciprocating elementpacking 29 within the reciprocating element bore 24, replacing orrepairing a suction valve assembly 56 integrated with the reciprocatingelement 18, replacing or repairing reciprocating element 18, or acombination thereof.

It will be appreciated that the wellbore servicing system 200 disclosedherein can be used for any purpose. In embodiments, the wellboreservicing system 200 may be used to service a wellbore 224 thatpenetrates a subterranean formation by pumping a wellbore servicingfluid into the wellbore and/or subterranean formation. As used herein, a“wellbore servicing fluid” or “servicing fluid” refers to a fluid usedto drill, complete, work over, fracture, repair, or in any way prepare awell bore for the recovery of materials residing in a subterraneanformation penetrated by the well bore. It is to be understood that“subterranean formation” encompasses both areas below exposed earth andareas below earth covered by water such as ocean or fresh water.Examples of servicing fluids suitable for use as the wellbore servicingfluid, the another wellbore servicing fluid, or both include, but arenot limited to, cementitious fluids (e.g., cement slurries), drillingfluids or muds, spacer fluids, fracturing fluids or completion fluids,and gravel pack fluids, remedial fluids, perforating fluids, sealants,drilling fluids, completion fluids, gelation fluids, polymeric fluids,aqueous fluids, oleaginous fluids, etc.

In embodiments, the wellbore servicing system 200 comprises one or morepumps 10 operable to perform oilfield and/or well servicing operations.Such operations may include, but are not limited to, drillingoperations, fracturing operations, perforating operations, fluid lossoperations, primary cementing operations, secondary or remedialcementing operations, or any combination of operations thereof. Althougha wellbore servicing system is illustrated, skilled artisans willreadily appreciate that the pump 10 disclosed herein may be employed inany suitable operation.

In embodiments, the wellbore servicing system 200 may be a system suchas a fracturing spread for fracturing wells in a hydrocarbon-containingreservoir. In fracturing operations, wellbore servicing fluids, such asparticle laden fluids, are pumped at high-pressure into a wellbore. Theparticle laden fluids may then be introduced into a portion of asubterranean formation at a sufficient pressure and velocity to cut acasing and/or create perforation tunnels and fractures within thesubterranean formation. Proppants, such as grains of sand, are mixedwith the wellbore servicing fluid to keep the fractures open so thathydrocarbons may be produced from the subterranean formation and flowinto the wellbore. Hydraulic fracturing may desirably createhigh-conductivity fluid communication between the wellbore and thesubterranean formation.

The wellbore servicing system 200 comprises a blender 202 that iscoupled to a wellbore services manifold trailer 204 via flowline 206. Asused herein, the term “wellbore services manifold trailer” includes atruck and/or trailer comprising one or more manifolds for receiving,organizing, and/or distributing wellbore servicing fluids duringwellbore servicing operations. In this embodiment, the wellbore servicesmanifold trailer 204 is coupled to six positive displacement pumps(e.g., such as pump 10 that may be mounted to a trailer and transportedto the wellsite via a semi-tractor) via outlet flowlines 208 and inletflowlines 210. In alternative embodiments, however, there may be more orless pumps used in a wellbore servicing operation. Outlet flowlines 208are outlet lines from the wellbore services manifold trailer 204 thatsupply fluid to the pumps 10. Inlet flowlines 210 are inlet lines fromthe pumps 10 that supply fluid to the wellbore services manifold trailer204.

The blender 202 mixes solid and fluid components to achieve awell-blended wellbore servicing fluid. As depicted, sand or proppant212, water 214, and additives 216 are fed into the blender 202 viafeedlines 218, 220, and 212, respectively. The water 214 may be potable,non-potable, untreated, partially treated, or treated water. Inembodiments, the water 214 may be produced water that has been extractedfrom the wellbore while producing hydrocarbons form the wellbore. Theproduced water may comprise dissolved and/or entrained organicmaterials, salts, minerals, paraffins, aromatics, resins, asphaltenes,and/or other natural or synthetic constituents that are displaced from ahydrocarbon formation during the production of the hydrocarbons. Inembodiments, the water 214 may be flowback water that has previouslybeen introduced into the wellbore during wellbore servicing operation.The flowback water may comprise some hydrocarbons, gelling agents,friction reducers, surfactants and/or remnants of wellbore servicingfluids previously introduced into the wellbore during wellbore servicingoperations.

The water 214 may further comprise local surface water contained innatural and/or manmade water features (such as ditches, ponds, rivers,lakes, oceans, etc.). Still further, the water 214 may comprise waterstored in local or remote containers. The water 214 may be water thatoriginated from near the wellbore and/or may be water that has beentransported to an area near the wellbore from any distance. In someembodiments, the water 214 may comprise any combination of producedwater, flowback water, local surface water, and/or container storedwater. In some implementations, water may be substituted by nitrogen orcarbon dioxide; some in a foaming condition.

In embodiments, the blender 202 may be an Advanced Dry Polymer (ADP)blender and the additives 216 are dry blended and dry fed into theblender 202. In alternative embodiments, however, additives may bepre-blended with water using other suitable blenders, such as, but notlimited to, a GEL PRO blender, which is a commercially availablepreblender trailer from Halliburton Energy Services, Inc., to form aliquid gel concentrate that may be fed into the blender 202. The mixingconditions of the blender 202, including time period, agitation method,pressure, and temperature of the blender 202, may be chosen by one ofordinary skill in the art with the aid of this disclosure to produce ahomogeneous blend having a desirable composition, density, andviscosity. In alternative embodiments, however, sand or proppant, water,and additives may be premixed and/or stored in a storage tank beforeentering a wellbore services manifold trailer 204.

In embodiments, the pump(s) 10 (e.g., pump(s) 10 and/or maintainedpump(s) 10) pressurize the wellbore servicing fluid to a pressuresuitable for delivery into a wellbore 224 or wellhead. For example, thepumps 10 may increase the pressure of the wellbore servicing fluid(e.g., the wellbore servicing fluid and/or the another wellboreservicing fluid) to a pressure of greater than or equal to about 10,000psi, 20,000 psi, 30,000 psi, 40,000 psi, or 50,000 psi, or higher.

From the pumps 10, the wellbore servicing fluid may reenter the wellboreservices manifold trailer 204 via inlet flowlines 210 and be combined sothat the wellbore servicing fluid may have a total fluid flow rate thatexits from the wellbore services manifold trailer 204 through flowline226 to the flow connector wellbore 1128 of between about 1 BPM to about200 BPM, alternatively from between about 50 BPM to about 150 BPM,alternatively about 100 BPM. in embodiments, each of one or more pumps10 discharge wellbore servicing fluid at a fluid flow rate of betweenabout 1 BPM to about 200 BPM, alternatively from between about 50 BPM toabout 150 BPM, alternatively about 100 BPM. Persons of ordinary skill inthe art with the aid of this disclosure will appreciate that theflowlines described herein are piping that are connected together forexample via flanges, collars, welds, etc. These flowlines may includevarious configurations of pipe tees, elbows, and the like. Theseflowlines connect together the various wellbore servicing fluid processequipment described herein.

Also disclosed herein are methods for servicing a wellbore (e.g.,wellbore 224). Without limitation, servicing the wellbore may include:positioning the wellbore servicing composition in the wellbore 224(e.g., via one or more pumps 10 as described herein) to isolate thesubterranean formation from a portion of the wellbore; to support aconduit in the wellbore; to plug a void or crack in the conduit; to pluga void or crack in a cement sheath disposed in an annulus of thewellbore; to plug a perforation; to plug an opening between the cementsheath and the conduit; to prevent the loss of aqueous or nonaqueousdrilling fluids into loss circulation zones such as a void, vugularzone, or fracture; to plug a well for abandonment purposes; to diverttreatment fluids; and/or to seal an annulus between the wellbore and anexpandable pipe or pipe string. In other embodiments, the wellboreservicing systems and methods may be employed in well completionoperations such as primary and secondary cementing operation to isolatethe subterranean formation from a different portion of the wellbore.

In embodiments, a wellbore servicing method may comprise transporting apositive displacement pump (e.g., pump 10) to a site for performing aservicing operation. Additionally or alternatively, one or more pumpsmay be situated on a suitable structural support. Non-limiting examplesof a suitable structural support or supports include a trailer, truck,skid, barge or combinations thereof. In embodiments, a motor or otherpower source for a pump may be situated on a common structural support.

In embodiments, a wellbore servicing method may comprise providing asource for a wellbore servicing fluid. As described above, the wellboreservicing fluid may comprise any suitable fluid or combinations of fluidas may be appropriate based upon the servicing operation beingperformed. Non-limiting examples of suitable wellbore servicing fluidinclude a fracturing fluid (e.g., a particle laden fluid, as describedherein), a perforating fluid, a cementitious fluid, a sealant, aremedial fluid, a drilling fluid (e.g., mud), a spacer fluid, a gelationfluid, a polymeric fluid, an aqueous fluid, an oleaginous fluid, anemulsion, various other wellbore servicing fluid as will be appreciatedby one of skill in the art with the aid of this disclosure, andcombinations thereof. The wellbore servicing fluid may be preparedon-site (e.g., via the operation of one or more blenders) or,alternatively, transported to the site of the servicing operation.

In embodiments, a wellbore servicing method may comprise fluidlycoupling a pump 10 to the wellbore servicing fluid source. As such,wellbore servicing fluid may be drawn into and emitted from the pump 10.Additionally or alternatively, a portion of a wellbore servicing fluidplaced in a wellbore 224 may be recycled, i.e., mixed with the waterstream obtained from a water source and treated in fluid treatmentsystem. Furthermore, a wellbore servicing method may comprise conveyingthe wellbore servicing fluid from its source to the wellbore via theoperation of the pump 10 disclosed herein.

In alternative embodiments, the reciprocating apparatus may comprise acompressor. In embodiments, a compressor similar to the pump 10 maycomprise at least one each of a cylinder, plunger, connecting rod,crankshaft, and housing, and may be coupled to a motor. In embodiments,such a compressor may be similar in form to a pump and may be configuredto compress a compressible fluid (e.g., a gas) and thereby increase thepressure of the compressible fluid. For example, a compressor may beconfigured to direct the discharge therefrom to a chamber or vessel thatcollects the compressible fluid from the discharge of the compressoruntil a predetermined pressure is built up in the chamber. Generally, apressure sensing device may be arranged and configured to monitor thepressure as it builds up in the chamber and to interact with thecompressor when a predetermined pressure is reached. At that point, thecompressor may either be shut off, or alternatively the discharge may bedirected to another chamber for continued operation.

In embodiments, a reciprocating apparatus comprises an internalcombustion engine, hereinafter referred to as an engine. Such enginesare also well known, and typically include at least one each of aplunger, cylinder, connecting rod, and crankshaft. The arrangement ofthese components is substantially the same in an engine and a pump (e.g.pump 10). A reciprocating element 18 such as a plunger may be similarlyarranged to move in reciprocating fashion within the cylinder. Skilledartisans will appreciate that operation of an engine may somewhat differfrom that of a pump. In a pump, rotational power is generally applied toa crankshaft acting on the plunger via the connecting rod, whereas in anengine, rotational power generally results from a force (e.g., aninternal combustion) exerted on or against the plunger, which actsagainst the crankshaft via the connecting rod.

For example, in a typical 4-stroke engine, arbitrarily beginning withthe exhaust stroke, the plunger is fully extended during the exhauststroke, (e.g., minimizing the internal volume of the cylinder). Theplunger may then be retracted by inertia or other forces of the enginecomponentry during the intake stroke. As the plunger retracts within thecylinder, the internal volume of cylinder increases, creating a lowpressure within the cylinder into which an air/fuel mixture is drawn.When the plunger is fully retracted within the cylinder, the intakestroke is complete, and the cylinder is substantially filled with theair/fuel mixture. As the crankshaft continues to rotate, the plunger maythen be extended, during the compression stroke, into the cylindercompressing the air-fuel mixture within the cylinder to a higherpressure.

A spark plug may be provided to ignite the fuel at a predetermined pointin the compression stroke. This ignition increases the temperature andpressure within the cylinder substantially and rapidly. In a dieselengine, however, the spark plug may be omitted, as the heat ofcompression derived from the high compression ratios associated withdiesel engines suffices to provide spontaneous combustion of theair-fuel mixture. In either case, the heat and pressure act forciblyagainst the plunger and cause it to retract back into the cylinderduring the power cycle at a substantial force, which may then be exertedon the connecting rod, and thereby on to the crankshaft.

Those of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate variousbenefits that may be realized by the present disclosure. For instance,the utilization of a reciprocating element 18 having tool engagementfeatures 64 as described herein can facilitate positioning of thereciprocating element 18 within reciprocating element bore 24. Theability to rotate and push or rotate and pull the reciprocating element18, during insertion into the reciprocating element bore 24 or removalof reciprocating element 18 from the reciprocating element bore 24,respectively, reduces the friction between the reciprocating element 18and the reciprocating element packing 29, thus facilitating (e.g.,reduces the energy needed to provide for) movement of the reciprocatingelement 18 within reciprocating element bore 24. The tool engagementfeatures 64 of reciprocating element 18, and the correspondingreciprocating element engagement features 95 of tool 92 can also be usedto connect the reciprocating element 18 with power end 12, for example,by connecting reciprocating element 18 with a reciprocating elementadapter and/or a pushrod of pump power end 12. According to thisdisclosure, a method of servicing a pump 10 of this disclosure comprisesinserting reciprocating element 18 into or removing reciprocatingelement 18 from front S1 of pump fluid end 22 by rotating thereciprocating element 18 through reciprocating element packing 29 viatool 92, whereby friction is reduced. According to this disclosure,inserting reciprocating element 18 into or removing reciprocatingelement 18 from pump fluid end 22 can be accomplished from the front S1of the pump fluid end 22 (e.g., without having to access the rear S2 ofpump fluid end 22).

In embodiments, the herein disclosed fluid end 22 design comprising areciprocating element 18 of this disclosure can provide for a reductionin pump fluid end 22 maintenance time by at least 10, 20, 30, 40, or 50%relative to a pump fluid end 22 comprising a reciprocating element 18absent the tool engagement features 64. A reduction in pump fluid end 22maintenance and/or assembly time reduces exposure of workers performingthe maintenance (and thus potentially enhances safety) and also reducesnon-productive time on location.

ADDITIONAL DISCLOSURE

The following are non-limiting, specific embodiments in accordance withthe present disclosure:

Embodiment A

A reciprocating element comprising: a cylindrical body having a frontend opposite a tail end, and a central axis, wherein the tail end of thecylindrical body is configured to be operatively connected to a pumppower end operable to reciprocate the reciprocating element along a pathwithin a bore of a pump fluid end during operation of a pump comprisingthe pump power end, the pump fluid end, and the reciprocating element;and wherein the front end of the cylindrical body comprises one or moretool engagement features positioned about an outer circumference of thefront end of the cylindrical body of the reciprocating element, whereinthe one or more tool engagement features are adapted to engage acorresponding one or more reciprocating element engagement features of areciprocating element end of a tool, such that the reciprocating elementcan be rotated, pulled, and/or pushed via the tool relative to thecentral axis of the cylindrical body.

Embodiment B

The reciprocating element of Embodiment A, wherein the one or more toolengagement features comprise one or more slots.

Embodiment C

The reciprocating element of Embodiment B, wherein the one or more slotshave a shape comprising a J-shape, a T-shape, an L-shape, or acombination thereof.

Embodiment D

The reciprocating element of any of Embodiment A through Embodiment C,wherein the reciprocating element engagement features of the tool arerotatably lockable with the tool engagement features of thereciprocating element, whereby the reciprocating element can be rotatedand pulled and/or rotated and pushed via the tool relative to thecentral axis of the cylindrical body.

Embodiment E

The reciprocating element of any of Embodiment B through Embodiment D,wherein the front end of the cylindrical body comprises a wall having awall thickness, and wherein the one or more slots extend a depth intothe wall that is less than or substantially equal to the wall thickness.

Embodiment F

The reciprocating element of any of Embodiment A through Embodiment E,wherein the reciprocating element comprises a plunger or a piston.

Embodiment G

A reciprocating element manipulation tool comprising: an actuating endand a reciprocating element end, wherein the reciprocating element endcomprises one or more reciprocating element engagement features adaptedto engage a corresponding one or more tool engagement features of areciprocating element, such that the reciprocating element can berotated, pulled, and/or pushed via the tool by engaging the toolengagement features of the reciprocating element with the reciprocatingelement engagement features of the tool such a central axis of the tooland a central axis of the reciprocating element are coaxial androtating, pushing, and/or pulling the reciprocating element relative toits central axis by correspondingly rotating, pushing, and/or pullingthe actuating end of the tool relative to its central axis.

Embodiment H

The reciprocating element manipulation tool of Embodiment G, wherein theactuating end comprises an internal square drive, an external hex, athrough hole, or a combination thereof.

Embodiment I

The reciprocating element manipulation tool of Embodiment G orEmbodiment H, wherein the reciprocating element manipulation tool andthe reciprocating element each comprise a cylindrical body, wherein theone or more tool engagement features comprise a plurality of slotspositioned about an outer circumference of one end of the cylindricalbody of the reciprocating element, and wherein the one or morereciprocating element engagement features comprise a plurality of lugsconfigured to fit into the one or more slots and positioned about anouter circumference of the reciprocating element end of the cylindricalbody of the tool.

Embodiment J

A method of maintaining or assembling a pump comprising a reciprocatingelement, the method comprising: accessing a reciprocating element boreof a pump fluid end, wherein the pump comprises a power end and the pumpfluid end, wherein the pump power end is operable to reciprocate areciprocating element along a path within the reciprocating element boreof the pump fluid end during operation of the pump, and wherein thereciprocating element comprises: a cylindrical body having a front endopposite a tail end and a central axis, wherein the tail end of thecylindrical body is configured to be operatively connected to the powerend during operation of the pump; and wherein the front end of thecylindrical body comprises one or more tool engagement featurespositioned about an outer circumference of the front end of thecylindrical body of the reciprocating element, wherein the one or moretool engagement features are adapted to engage a corresponding one ormore reciprocating element engagement features of a reciprocatingelement end of a tool, during maintaining and/or assembling of the pump,such that the reciprocating element can be rotated, pulled, and/orpushed via the tool relative to the central axis of the cylindricalbody; engaging the tool engagement features of the reciprocating elementwith the reciprocating element engagement features of the tool; andremoving the reciprocating element from the pump fluid end by rotatingand pulling the reciprocating element via the tool relative to thecentral axis of the cylindrical body, and/or positioning the or anotherreciprocating element within the pump fluid end by rotating and pushingthe reciprocating element or the another reciprocating element via thetool relative to the central axis of the cylindrical body.

Embodiment K

The method of Embodiment J comprising: removing the reciprocatingelement from the pump fluid end by rotating and pulling thereciprocating element via the tool relative to the central axis of thecylindrical body; optionally performing a maintenance on the pump fluidend of the pump, the reciprocating element, or both; and positioning theor another reciprocating element within the pump fluid end by rotatingand pushing the reciprocating element or the another reciprocatingelement via the tool relative to the central axis of the cylindricalbody.

Embodiment L

The method of Embodiment K, wherein performing a maintenance on the pumpfluid end of the pump comprises repacking a reciprocating elementpacking within the reciprocating element bore; wherein performing amaintenance on the reciprocating element comprises replacing orrepairing a suction valve assembly integrated with the reciprocatingelement; or a combination thereof.

Embodiment M

The method of Embodiment any of Embodiment J through Embodiment L:wherein removing the reciprocating element from the pump fluid end byrotating and pulling the reciprocating element via the tool relative tothe central axis of the cylindrical body further comprises decouplingthe tail end of the cylindrical body of the reciprocating element from areciprocating element adapter further coupled to a pushrod of the powerend and/or otherwise decoupling the tail end of the cylindrical body ofthe reciprocating element from the pushrod of the power end; and whereinpositioning the or the another reciprocating element within the pumpfluid end by rotating and pushing the reciprocating element or theanother reciprocating element via the tool further comprises couplingthe tail end of the cylindrical body of the reciprocating element or theanother reciprocating element with the reciprocating element adapterfurther coupled to the pushrod of the power end and/or otherwisecoupling the tail end of the cylindrical body of the reciprocatingelement or the another reciprocating element directly with the pushrodof the power end.

Embodiment N

The method of any of Embodiment J through Embodiment M, whereinpositioning the or the another reciprocating element within the pumpfluid end by rotating and pushing the reciprocating element or theanother reciprocating element via the tool comprises coupling the tailend of the cylindrical body of the reciprocating element or the anotherreciprocating element with a reciprocating element adapter furthercoupled to a pushrod of the power end, such that the tail end of thecylindrical body of the reciprocating element is fixedly coupled to thereciprocating element adapter, and wherein the reciprocating elementadapter is coupled to the pushrod via a clamp that fixedly couples thereciprocating element adapter in contact with the pushrod of the powerend, whereby, upon positioning of the reciprocating element or theanother reciprocating element within the pump fluid end, a central axisof the reciprocating element is parallel to or coincident with a centralaxis of the pushrod.

Embodiment O

The method of any of Embodiment J through Embodiment N, whereinaccessing the reciprocating element bore of the pump fluid end comprisesopening an access port located on a side of the pump fluid end distalthe power end.

Embodiment P

A method of servicing a wellbore, the method comprising: fluidlycoupling a pump to a source of a wellbore servicing fluid and to thewellbore, wherein the pump comprises: a power end, a pump fluid end, anda reciprocating element, wherein the power end is operable toreciprocate the reciprocating element along a path within areciprocating element bore of the pump fluid end during operation of thepump, and wherein the reciprocating element comprises: a cylindricalbody having a front end opposite a tail end, and a central axis, whereinthe tail end of the cylindrical body is operatively connected to thepower end; and wherein the front end of the cylindrical body comprisesone or more tool engagement features positioned about an outercircumference of the front end of the cylindrical body of thereciprocating element, wherein the one or more tool engagement featuresare adapted to engage a corresponding one or more reciprocating elementengagement features of a reciprocating element end of a tool, duringmaintaining and/or assembling of the pump, such that the reciprocatingelement can be rotated, pulled, and/or pushed via the tool relative tothe central axis; and communicating wellbore servicing fluid into thewellbore via the pump.

Embodiment Q

The method of Embodiment P further comprising: discontinuing thecommunicating of the wellbore servicing fluid into the wellbore via thepump; and subjecting the pump to maintenance to provide a maintainedpump, wherein subjecting the pump to maintenance comprises: accessingthe reciprocating element bore of the pump fluid end; removing thereciprocating element from the pump fluid end by rotating and pullingthe reciprocating element via the tool; optionally performing amaintenance on the pump fluid end of the pump, on the reciprocatingelement, or both; and positioning the or another reciprocating elementwithin the pump fluid end by rotating and pushing the reciprocatingelement or the another reciprocating element via the tool relative tothe central axis; and communicating the or another wellbore servicingfluid into the wellbore via the maintained pump.

Embodiment R

The method of Embodiment Q comprising performing a maintenance on thepump fluid end of the pump, wherein performing maintenance comprisesrepacking a reciprocating element packing within the reciprocatingelement bore; wherein performing a maintenance on the reciprocatingelement comprises replacing or repairing a suction valve assemblyintegrated with the reciprocating element; or a combination thereof.

Embodiment S

The method of any of Embodiment P through Embodiment R, wherein thewellbore servicing fluid, the another wellbore servicing fluid, or boththe wellbore servicing fluid and the another wellbore servicing fluidcomprise a fracturing fluid, a cementitious fluid, a remedial fluid, aperforating fluid, a sealant, a drilling fluid, a spacer fluid, acompletion fluid, a gravel pack fluid, a gelation fluid, a polymericfluid, an aqueous fluid, an oleaginous fluid, or a combination thereof.

Embodiment T

The method of any of Embodiment P through Embodiment S, wherein the pumpor the maintained pump operates during the pumping of the wellboreservicing fluid or the another wellbore servicing fluid at a pressure ofgreater than or equal to about 3,000 psi, 5,000 psi, 10,000 psi, 20,000psi, 30,000 psi, 40,000 psi, or 50,000 psi.

Embodiment U

The method of any of Embodiment P through Embodiment T, wherein the pumpor the maintained pump operates during the pumping of the wellboreservicing fluid or the another wellbore servicing fluid at a volumetricflow rate of greater than or equal to about 3, 10, or 20 barrels perminute (BPM), or in a range of from about 3 to about 20, from about 10to about 20, or from about 5 to about 20 BPM.

Embodiment V

A method of maintaining or assembling a pump comprising a reciprocatingelement, the method comprising: engaging one or more tool engagementfeatures of the reciprocating element with one or more reciprocatingelement engagement features of a reciprocating element manipulationtool; and removing the reciprocating element from the pump fluid end byrotating and pulling the reciprocating element via the reciprocatingelement manipulation tool relative to a central axis of thereciprocating element, and/or positioning the or another reciprocatingelement within the pump fluid end by rotating and pushing thereciprocating element or the another reciprocating element via thereciprocating element manipulation tool relative to the central axis ofreciprocating element.

Embodiment W

The method of Embodiment V, wherein the one or more tool engagementfeatures of the reciprocating element are positioned about an outercircumference of a front end of the reciprocating element, wherein theone or more reciprocating element engagement features of thereciprocating element manipulation tool are adapted to engage acorresponding number of the one or more tool engagement features of thereciprocating element and are positioned about an outer circumference ofa reciprocating element end of the reciprocating element manipulationtool, such that, during maintaining and/or assembling of the pump, thereciprocating element can be rotated, pulled, and/or pushed via thereciprocating element manipulation tool relative to the central axis ofthe reciprocating element.

Embodiment X

The method of Embodiment V or Embodiment W further comprising: removingthe reciprocating element from the pump fluid end by rotating andpulling the reciprocating element via the reciprocating elementmanipulation tool relative to the central axis of the reciprocatingelement; optionally performing a maintenance on the pump fluid end ofthe pump, the reciprocating element, or both; and positioning the oranother reciprocating element within the pump fluid end by rotating andpushing the or the another reciprocating element via the reciprocatingelement manipulation tool relative to the central axis of thereciprocating element.

Embodiment Y

The method of Embodiment X, wherein performing a maintenance on the pumpfluid end of the pump comprises repacking a reciprocating elementpacking within the pump fluid end; wherein performing a maintenance onthe reciprocating element comprises replacing or repairing a suctionvalve assembly integrated with the reciprocating element; or acombination thereof.

Embodiment Z

The method of Embodiment X or Embodiment Y, wherein performing themaintenance is effected from a front of the pump fluid end, withoutaccessing the pump fluid end from a rear of the pump fluid end.

Embodiment Z1

A method comprising releasably, mechanically coupling a tool to one ormore structural features located on an exterior surface of a cylindricalreciprocating pump plunger and applying a force to the plunger via thetool to remove the plunger from a fluid end of a pump comprising theplunger, wherein the plunger is accessed and removed from the fluid endvia an access port on the front of the fluid end.

Embodiment Z2

The method of embodiment Z1 wherein the structural features are slots onthe exterior surface of the plunger.

Embodiment Z3

The method of embodiment Z1 or Z2 wherein the force is torque applied tothe plunger via the tool.

While embodiments have been shown and described, modifications thereofcan be made by one skilled in the art without departing from the spiritand teachings of this disclosure. The embodiments described herein areexemplary only, and are not intended to be limiting. Many variations andmodifications of the embodiments disclosed herein are possible and arewithin the scope of this disclosure. Where numerical ranges orlimitations are expressly stated, such express ranges or limitationsshould be understood to include iterative ranges or limitations of likemagnitude falling within the expressly stated ranges or limitations(e.g., from about 1 to about 10 includes, 2, 3, 4, etc.; greater than0.10 includes 0.11, 0.12, 0.13, etc.). For example, whenever a numericalrange with a lower limit, R1, and an upper limit, Ru, is disclosed, anynumber falling within the range is specifically disclosed. Inparticular, the following numbers within the range are specificallydisclosed: R=R1+k*(Ru−R1), wherein k is a variable ranging from 1percent to 100 percent with a 1 percent increment, i.e., k is 1 percent,2 percent, 3 percent, 4 percent, 5 percent, . . . 50 percent, 51percent, 52 percent, . . . , 95 percent, 96 percent, 97 percent, 98percent, 99 percent, or 100 percent. Moreover, any numerical rangedefined by two R numbers as defined in the above is also specificallydisclosed. Use of the term “optionally” with respect to any element of aclaim is intended to mean that the subject element is required, oralternatively, is not required. Both alternatives are intended to bewithin the scope of the claim. Use of broader terms such as comprises,includes, having, etc. should be understood to provide support fornarrower terms such as consisting of, consisting essentially of,comprised substantially of, etc.

Accordingly, the scope of protection is not limited by the descriptionset out above but is only limited by the claims which follow, that scopeincluding all equivalents of the subject matter of the claims. Each andevery claim is incorporated into the specification as an embodiment ofthe present disclosure. Thus, the claims are a further description andare an addition to the embodiments of the present disclosure. Thediscussion of a reference herein is not an admission that it is priorart, especially any reference that may have a publication date after thepriority date of this application. The disclosures of all patents,patent applications, and publications cited herein are herebyincorporated by reference, to the extent that they provide exemplary,procedural, or other details supplementary to those set forth herein.

We claim:
 1. A reciprocating element comprising: a cylindrical bodyhaving a front end opposite a tail end, and a central axis, wherein thetail end of the cylindrical body is configured to be operativelyconnected to a pump power end operable to reciprocate the reciprocatingelement along a path within a bore of a pump fluid end during operationof a pump comprising the pump power end, the pump fluid end, and thereciprocating element; and wherein the front end of the cylindrical bodycomprises one or more tool engagement features positioned about an outercircumference of the front end of the cylindrical body of thereciprocating element, wherein the one or more tool engagement featuresare adapted to engage a corresponding one or more reciprocating elementengagement features of a reciprocating element end of a tool, such thatthe reciprocating element can be rotated, pulled, and pushed via thetool relative to the central axis of the cylindrical body, wherein theone or more tool engagement features comprise one or more slots, whereinthe front end of the cylindrical body comprises a wall having a wallthickness, and wherein the one or more slots extend a depth into thewall that is less than or substantially equal to the wall thickness. 2.The reciprocating element of claim 1, wherein the reciprocating elementcomprises a plunger or a piston.
 3. A method of maintaining orassembling a pump comprising the reciprocating element of claim 1, themethod comprising: accessing a reciprocating element bore of a pumpfluid end, wherein the pump comprises a power end and the pump fluidend, wherein the pump power end is operable to reciprocate areciprocating element along a path within the reciprocating element boreof the pump fluid end during operation of the pump, and wherein thereciprocating element comprises: a cylindrical body having a front endopposite a tail end and a central axis, wherein the tail end of thecylindrical body is configured to be operatively connected to the powerend during operation of the pump; and wherein the front end of thecylindrical body comprises one or more tool engagement featurespositioned about an outer circumference of the front end of thecylindrical body of the reciprocating element, wherein the one or moretool engagement features are adapted to engage a corresponding one ormore reciprocating element engagement features of a reciprocatingelement end of a tool, during maintaining and/or assembling of the pump,such that the reciprocating element can be rotated, pulled, and pushedvia the tool relative to the central axis of the cylindrical body;engaging the tool engagement features of the reciprocating element withthe reciprocating element engagement features of the tool; and removingthe reciprocating element from the pump fluid end by rotating andpulling the reciprocating element via the tool relative to the centralaxis of the cylindrical body, and/or positioning the or anotherreciprocating element within the pump fluid end by rotating and pushingthe reciprocating element or the another reciprocating element via thetool relative to the central axis of the cylindrical body, whereinremoving the reciprocating element from the pump fluid end by rotatingand pulling the reciprocating element via the tool relative to thecentral axis of the cylindrical body further comprises decoupling thetail end of the cylindrical body of the reciprocating element from areciprocating element adapter further coupled to a pushrod of the powerend and/or otherwise decoupling the tail end of the cylindrical body ofthe reciprocating element from the pushrod of the power end; and whereinpositioning the or the another reciprocating element within the pumpfluid end by rotating and pushing the reciprocating element or theanother reciprocating element via the tool further comprises couplingthe tail end of the cylindrical body of the reciprocating element or theanother reciprocating element with the reciprocating element adapterfurther coupled to the pushrod of the power end and/or otherwisecoupling the tail end of the cylindrical body of the reciprocatingelement or the another reciprocating element directly with the pushrodof the power end.
 4. The method of claim 3, further comprisingperforming a maintenance on the pump fluid end of the pump, thereciprocating element, or both; wherein the performing a-maintenance onthe pump fluid end of the pump comprises repacking a reciprocatingelement packing within the reciprocating element bore; replacing orrepairing a suction valve assembly integrated with the reciprocatingelement; or a combination thereof.
 5. The method of claim 3, whereinpositioning the or the another reciprocating element within the pumpfluid end by rotating and pushing the reciprocating element or theanother reciprocating element via the tool comprises coupling the tailend of the cylindrical body of the reciprocating element or the anotherreciprocating element with a reciprocating element adapter furthercoupled to a pushrod of the power end, such that the tail end of thecylindrical body of the reciprocating element is fixedly coupled to thereciprocating element adapter, and wherein the reciprocating elementadapter is coupled to the pushrod via a clamp that fixedly couples thereciprocating element adapter in contact with the pushrod of the powerend, whereby, upon positioning of the reciprocating element or theanother reciprocating element within the pump fluid end, a central axisof the reciprocating element is parallel to or coincident with a centralaxis of the pushrod.
 6. The reciprocating element of claim 1, whereinthe reciprocating element engagement features of the tool are rotatablylockable with the tool engagement features of the reciprocating element,whereby the reciprocating element can be rotated and pulled and/orrotated and pushed via the tool relative to the central axis of thecylindrical body.
 7. A reciprocating element comprising: a cylindricalbody having a front end opposite a tail end, and a central axis, whereinthe tail end of the cylindrical body is configured to be operativelyconnected to a pump power end operable to reciprocate the reciprocatingelement along a path within a bore of a pump fluid end during operationof a pump comprising the pump power end, the pump fluid end, and thereciprocating element; and wherein the front end of the cylindrical bodycomprises one or more tool engagement features positioned about an outercircumference of the front end of the cylindrical body of thereciprocating element, wherein the one or more tool engagement featuresare adapted to engage a corresponding one or more reciprocating elementengagement features of a reciprocating element end of a tool, such thatthe reciprocating element can be rotated, pulled, and pushed via thetool relative to the central axis of the cylindrical body, wherein theone or more tool engagement features comprise one or more slots, andwherein the one or more slots have a shape comprising a J-shape, aT-shape, an L-shape, or a combination thereof.
 8. The reciprocatingelement of claim 7, wherein the reciprocating element engagementfeatures of the tool are rotatably lockable with the tool engagementfeatures of the reciprocating element, whereby the reciprocating elementcan be rotated and pulled and/or rotated and pushed via the toolrelative to the central axis of the cylindrical body.
 9. Thereciprocating element of claim 7, wherein the front end of thecylindrical body comprises a wall having a wall thickness, and whereinthe one or more slots extend a depth into the wall that is less than orsubstantially equal to the wall thickness.
 10. The reciprocating elementof claim 7, wherein the reciprocating element comprises a plunger or apiston.
 11. A reciprocating element manipulation tool comprising: anactuating end and a reciprocating element end, wherein the reciprocatingelement end comprises one or more reciprocating element engagementfeatures adapted to engage a corresponding one or more tool engagementfeatures of a reciprocating element, such that the reciprocating elementcan be rotated, pulled, and pushed via the tool by engaging the toolengagement features of the reciprocating element with the reciprocatingelement engagement features of the tool such a central axis of the tooland a central axis of the reciprocating element are coaxial androtating, pushing, and/or pulling the reciprocating element relative toits central axis by correspondingly rotating, pushing, and/or pullingthe actuating end of the tool relative to its central axis, wherein thereciprocating element manipulation tool and the reciprocating elementeach comprise a cylindrical body, wherein the one or more toolengagement features comprise a plurality of slots positioned about anouter circumference of one end of the cylindrical body of thereciprocating element, and wherein the one or more reciprocating elementengagement features comprise a plurality of lugs configured to fit intothe one or more slots and positioned about an outer circumference of thereciprocating element end of the cylindrical body of the tool.
 12. Thereciprocating element manipulation tool of claim 11, wherein theactuating end comprises an internal square drive, an external hex, athrough hole, or a combination thereof.
 13. A method of servicing awellbore, the method comprising: fluidly coupling a pump to a source ofa wellbore servicing fluid and to the wellbore, wherein the pumpcomprises: a power end, a pump fluid end, and a reciprocating element,wherein the power end is operable to reciprocate the reciprocatingelement along a path within a reciprocating element bore of the pumpfluid end during operation of the pump, and wherein the reciprocatingelement comprises: a cylindrical body having a front end opposite a tailend, and a central axis, wherein the tail end of the cylindrical body isoperatively connected to the power end; and wherein the front end of thecylindrical body comprises one or more tool engagement featurespositioned about an outer circumference of the front end of thecylindrical body of the reciprocating element, wherein the one or moretool engagement features are adapted to engage a corresponding one ormore reciprocating element engagement features of a reciprocatingelement end of a tool, during maintaining and/or assembling of the pump,such that the reciprocating element can be rotated, pulled, and pushedvia the tool relative to the central axis, wherein the one or more toolengagement features comprise one or more slots, and either (i) whereinthe front end of the cylindrical body comprises a wall having a wallthickness, and wherein the one or more slots extend a depth into thewall that is less than or substantially equal to the wall thickness; or(ii) wherein the one or more slots have a shape comprising a J-shape, aT-shape, an L-shape, or a combination thereof; or (iii) both (i) and(ii); and communicating wellbore servicing fluid into the wellbore viathe pump.
 14. The method of claim 13 further comprising: discontinuingthe communicating of the wellbore servicing fluid into the wellbore viathe pump; and subjecting the pump to maintenance to provide a maintainedpump, wherein subjecting the pump to maintenance comprises: accessingthe reciprocating element bore of the pump fluid end; removing thereciprocating element from the pump fluid end by rotating and pullingthe reciprocating element via the tool; optionally performing amaintenance on the pump fluid end of the pump, on the reciprocatingelement, or both; and positioning the or another reciprocating elementwithin the pump fluid end by rotating and pushing the reciprocatingelement or the another reciprocating element via the tool relative tothe central axis; and communicating the or another wellbore servicingfluid into the wellbore via the maintained pump.
 15. The method of claim14 comprising performing a maintenance on the pump fluid end of thepump, wherein performing maintenance comprises repacking a reciprocatingelement packing within the reciprocating element bore; whereinperforming a maintenance on the reciprocating element comprisesreplacing or repairing a suction valve assembly integrated with thereciprocating element; or a combination thereof.
 16. The method of claim14, wherein the wellbore servicing fluid, the another wellbore servicingfluid, or both the wellbore servicing fluid and the another wellboreservicing fluid comprise a fracturing fluid, a cementitious fluid, aremedial fluid, a perforating fluid, a sealant, a drilling fluid, aspacer fluid, a completion fluid, a gravel pack fluid, a gelation fluid,a polymeric fluid, an aqueous fluid, an oleaginous fluid, or acombination thereof.
 17. The method of claim 14, wherein the pump or themaintained pump operates during the pumping of the wellbore servicingfluid or the another wellbore servicing fluid at a pressure of greaterthan or equal to about 3,000 psi, 5,000 psi, 10,000 psi, 20,000 psi,30,000 psi, 40,000 psi, or 50,000 psi.
 18. The method of claim 14,wherein the pump or the maintained pump operates during the pumping ofthe wellbore servicing fluid or the another wellbore servicing fluid ata volumetric flow rate of greater than or equal to about 3, 10, or 20barrels per minute (BPM), or in a range of from about 3 to about 20,from about 10 to about 20, or from about 5 to about 20 BPM.
 19. Thereciprocating element of claim 13, wherein the reciprocating elementengagement features of the tool are rotatably lockable with the toolengagement features of the reciprocating element, whereby thereciprocating element can be rotated and pulled and/or rotated andpushed via the tool relative to the central axis of the cylindricalbody.